ndsu-extension-soil-erosion

Photo: NDSU Extension

CARRINGTON, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Dry conditions and high winds have continued to plague North Dakota, but they’ve also highlighted the issue of soil erosion.

Dionn Schaff, Foster County Soil Conservation District Manager, says last week there was major evidence of soil erosion in the area.

Valuable topsoil can be lost due to wind and water erosion, diminishing soil health and potentially increasing nutrient requirements, causing potential problems with long term productivity.

Schaff says they monitor numerous spots in the county and found several with a foot or more of drifted soil.

Schaff says according to testing points, many parts of North Dakota have lost half of their topsoil in just the last 50 to 60 years.

Schaff says there are soil health principals to help alleviate soil erosion, adding that many may even consider minimal or no-till.

You can hear a full interview with Dionn Schaff below: